The Last Day of _The Bell Jar_

For the final day of _Bell Jar_ , we will be taking up the themes of birth, rebirth and death, especially in light of "the baby" that appears on p. 3 only to disappear for the rest of the novel.
Finally, we will be considering the question Max posed on Monday, less loftily rephrased here: Is Esther crazy?
Post your discussion questions below.

Discussion Questions for Day Three of _The Bell Jar_

We'll be focusing on the theme of doubles tomorrow, both in terms of the Esther's internal doubling and the external doubles available to her as a Cold War woman.

Discussion Questions for Day Two of _The Bell Jar_

Let's keep Max's question in mind as we discuss Cold War womanhood in tomorrow's class. Consider the life paths open to a young (white) woman in early-1950s America. What adult examples are available to Esther as she envisions (or is forced to envision) a future for herself? How do gendered expectations shape not just her personal plans but also her relationships with men (like Lenny, Buddy, her father, et al.)?

Please post a question of your own to consider from tonight's reading.

Discussion Questions for Day One of _The Bell Jar_

I'd like you to focus on visions and the visual in this first installment of _The Bell Jar_. Feel free to ask questions relating to this topic, or on a subject of your choosing.